SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 17: Secretary, Planning, Development & Monitoring Department, Dr. Owais Ahmad, today convened a comprehensive review meeting of the Directorate of Economics & Statistics at the Directorate office Bemina here to assess its overall functioning, progress on key assignments and achievements.
The meeting was attended by Director General, Economics & Statistics, Ashu Gupta; other senior officers of the department, including Regional Directors, Joint Directors, Deputy Directors and other concerned officers.
During the review, the Secretary took stock of the activities and achievements of the Directorate and emphasised that the Department must continue to function as a key knowledge and data resource for the Government.
Addressing the meeting, Dr. Owais Ahmad emphasised on the pivotal role of the Economics and Statistics Department in generating reliable, timely and evidence-based statistical information for effective policy formulation, development planning and informed decision-making. He stressed that accurate statistical data forms the foundation of sound governance and is essential for assessing development outcomes and identifying emerging priorities.
He called for sustained efforts towards strengthening the statistical framework of Jammu and Kashmir to support evidence-based planning, effective implementation of developmental programmes and robust monitoring of socio-economic progress.
The Secretary called upon the officers to further strengthen the institutional mechanisms for data collection, compilation, validation and analysis to ensure the availability of credible and up-to-date statistical information.
He underscored the need to maintain high standards of accuracy, consistency and transparency in all statistical outputs, observing that the quality of data directly influences the effectiveness of government policies and development interventions.
Dr. Owais Ahmad stressed the importance of timely completion of departmental assignments and directed the officers to maintain a result-oriented approach, with a clear focus on efficiency, accountability and adherence to prescribed timelines. He called for regular monitoring of ongoing activities and improved coordination among the Directorate, regional offices and other stakeholder departments to ensure seamless execution of assigned responsibilities.
Highlighting the growing significance of data-driven governance, the Secretary emphasised the need to adopt modern technologies and strengthen digital systems for improving the efficiency of statistical operations. He encouraged the officers to explore opportunities for streamlining data management processes, reducing procedural delays and enhancing the accessibility and usability of official statistical information.
During the meeting, Director General, Economics & Statistics presented a detailed PowerPoint presentation highlighting the mandate and functioning of the Directorate, various assignments entrusted to it, progress achieved across different areas and the status of ongoing activities.
